Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple

The Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple, dedicated to the powerful Lord Narasimha, is also known by the names of Narasimha Zarna Cave temple and Jharani Narasimha Temple. Every year people flock to this temple in droves to get their wishes fulfilled. This sacred temple is located in a cave in Bidar.

Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple– Overview

The Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is considered to be very sacred. The temple in situated in a cave where the water runs up to 300 metres. This temple is situated under the Manichoola hill range and it opens at eight in the morning. Situated in Bidar in North Karnataka, this temple lies a kilometre away from Bidar city. You have to wade through waist deep water to reach the feet of the deity.

Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple – Mythology

The temple of Narasimha Jhira has a myth which mentions that the mighty Lord Narasimha first killed Hiranyakashipu and then proceeded to slay the demon Jalasura who was a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva. After being killed by Lord Narasimha, the demon Jalasura turned into water and started flowing down the feet of the Lord Narasimha.

For this reason, people have to wade all the way through the water to reach the Lord. Recent arrangements were made to provide electricity and ventilation in this cave. You’ll need to take a quick bath in the water fountain located outside the Narasimha Jhira Cave temple.

The end of the cave houses two deities – Lord Narasimha and a Shiva Linga which the demon Jalasura had worshipped. Around eight people can stand and watch this spectacular sight as there is very little space here. Others will need to wait in the water.

People throng to this temple because it is believed that the idol at the Narasimha Jhira Cave temple is a swayambhu roopam – in other words, the deity is self manifested and is very powerful. The fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Lord Narasimha, is half human and half lion.

How to Get to Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple

Devotees who visit the cave temple can opt for air, rail or road travel .

Air – There’s an airport in Hyderabad which is the nearest one.

Road – Luxury buses to Bidar will be available from all over Karnataka.

Train – Bidar has a major railway station that’s well connected to all major cities.